Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) has marked a significant milestone in its travel history, registering an unprecedented 8,021,505 passengers from May 2023 to May 2024, a notable 13.875% increase over its previous pre-pandemic peak, and a slight 0.5% rise from the post-pandemic record just a few months prior. As reported by Palm Beach County government's official website, Director of Airports Laura Beebe attributed this success to the collective efforts of the airport staff and partners, citing ongoing improvements to facilities which include the expansion of Concourse B and forthcoming upgrades to food, beverage, and retail offerings.
The ascension in passenger volume is also linked to heightened travel interest and recent enhancements in service; Silver Airways brought back their nonstop service to Tampa and Nassurre, meanwhile, American Airlines extended their Chicago O’Hare route during the summer, Andrew Gamboa, the airport's Manager of Air Service Development, revealed a strong winter forecast with the introduction of new and resumed seasonal flights and mentioned an upcoming announcement about a new airline joining PBI's roster. Despite its size, PBI has garnered an admirable reputation, securing high ranks in both Condé Nast and Travel + Leisure's recent reader and traveler surveys, respectably acknowledges as the 4th Best Airport in the U.S. and the 8th Best Domestic Airport, while boasts the shortest overall TSA waiting times according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection findings and standing out in the J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study.
Behind the operational achievements of PBI lies an economic footprint echoing through South Florida, as the 2019 Florida Statewide Aviation Economic Impact Study showed the airport generates over $5.6 billion annually, bolstering the region's economy both directly and indirectly. In anticipation of continued growth and as Palm Beach International Airport serves a growing passenger base now numbering approximately 8 million a year, the local economy stands to benefit significantly from the airport's ongoing operational expansion and enhancement.
